Cozy Apple Cider Soup

As the crisp autumn air settles in, there's nothing more comforting than the warmth of a homemade soup to chase away the chill. Our Cozy Apple Cider Soup blends sweet apples with savory spices, creating a heartwarming dish that's perfect for the season. This unique recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional soups, making it an ideal starter for your fall gatherings or a comforting bowl to enjoy on a quiet evening at home.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 4 cups of apples, peeled and chopped (about 4 medium apples)
• 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
• 4 cups of vegetable broth
• 2 cups of apple cider
• 1/4 cup of heavy cream (optional for creaminess)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Garnish: Fresh parsley and apple slices

Cooking method

1. Sauté the aromatics: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

2. Add apples and spices: Stir in the chopped apples, cinnamon, and nutmeg, cooking for another 3 minutes until the apples begin to soften.

3. Pour in liquids: Add the vegetable broth and apple cider to the pot, bringing the mixture to a boil.

4. 

   Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the apples are very tender.

5. Blend the soup: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender in batches, blending carefully to avoid splashes.

6. 

   Add cream: Stir in the heavy cream if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with fresh parsley and apple slices. Enjoy warm.

Nutritious Value and Pairings

Cozy Apple Cider Soup is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a healthy choice. Apples are rich in fiber and vitamin C, while the spices provide antioxidants. The broth offers hydration and essential nutrients, making this soup a wholesome option.

When it comes to pairings, this soup shines alongside crusty whole-grain bread or a side salad with mixed greens, walnuts, and crumbled goat cheese. For a truly autumnal experience, serve it with a drink like warm apple cider or a light white wine such as a Riesling, which complements the sweetness of the soup beautifully.

Embrace the flavors of fall with this Cozy Apple Cider Soup, a simple yet elegant dish that captures the essence of the season.